The July 2024 survey conducted by the Real Presence Coalition (RPC) marks a significant milestone in understanding the sentiments of U.S. Catholics regarding their faith, particularly related to the Eucharist. Drawing nearly 16,000 responses, this survey is the largest ever undertaken among Catholics in the United States, surpassing prior efforts conducted by organizations like Pew Research. The data collection, facilitated by the public opinion firm Public Opinion Strategies, included a robust representation of lay Catholics, with 97 percent of participants indicating they attend Mass weekly and firmly believe in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. This overwhelming response highlights a deep and engaged Catholic community, eager to articulate the factors they believe contribute to the erosion of faith in the sacrament.
One of the most striking findings from the survey is the overwhelming consensus among respondents regarding the perceived causes for declining faith in the Eucharist. A significant 58 percent pinpoint the practice of receiving Holy Communion in the hand while standing as the most detrimental factor affecting belief in the Real Presence. Additionally, the survey highlighted concerns over the Church’s reception of public sinners who do not adhere to Catholic teachings and the casual attitudes exhibited toward the Eucharist. The respondents emphasized an array of issues, including the lack of reverence during Mass, the movement of the tabernacle away from the sanctuary’s focal point, and insufficient catechesis, all contributing to a sense of diminished faith among churchgoers.
Furthermore, the survey uncovered an apathy towards liturgical practices that, historically, have been foundational to Catholic worship. More than 71 percent of respondents identified concerns regarding “homosexuality in the priesthood,” acknowledging its perceived impact on their belief in the Eucharist. Many participants also disapproved of the replacing of traditional liturgical music with contemporary alternatives, the removal of altar rails, and the lack of solemnity in worship. The decline of beauty in church architecture was mentioned alongside the clerical abuse crisis, which remains a significant barrier to fostering faith in the sacramental life of the Church.
Criticism directed at clerical behavior and Church leadership was a salient theme, with many respondents voicing their discontent over perceived irreverence during Mass, including casual dress and loud talking. Several mentioned the hurried conduct of priests during Mass, claiming it undermined the sacredness of the liturgy. The perceptions of weak leadership among bishops and church authorities further exacerbated feelings of scandal and confusion among the faithful, particularly regarding the implementation of Canon 915, which calls for the denial of Communion to those in a state of grave sin.
In response to the concerns raised, survey participants generously offered suggestions to renew faith in the Eucharist. The foremost recommendation was to encourage the practice of receiving Communion on the tongue while kneeling, supported by nearly 29 percent of respondents. Additionally, there was strong advocacy for enhanced catechesis surrounding transubstantiation and worthy reception of Communion; 24 percent emphasized this as a necessary step forward. Other prevalent calls for action included promoting greater reverence for the Eucharist through practices such as kneeling and genuflecting, eliminating extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion, and strictly adhering to guidelines on withholding Communion from public sinners.
The findings of the RPC survey have resonated deeply within the Catholic community, illustrating a collective yearning for a return to reverent worship that upholds the sanctity of the Eucharist. The concerns voiced by the respondents reflect a profound desire for modifications that would reinstate traditional practices within the liturgy, rooted in reverence and respect for the sacrament. The overwhelming engagement in the survey demonstrates the urgency felt by many Catholics in addressing these pivotal issues and reconnecting with the fundamental beliefs that define their faith.